Josh Shapiro, Governor | Pennsylvania Government
Governor Josh Shapiro has signed House Bill 439, known as the CROWN Act, into law. The new legislation amends the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act to broaden the definition of "race" so that it now includes traits historically linked to race, such as hair texture, protective hairstyles, and religious creed.
Pennsylvania is now the 28th state in the U.S. to ban discrimination based on hair texture and protective hairstyles associated with race. This move aims to ensure that residents are not subject to racial bias because of their hair or appearance. Data from a 2022 report by the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission shows that there were 916 complaints filed that year related to racial discrimination involving hair texture and protective hairstyles.
At the signing event, Governor Shapiro was joined by legislative leaders and local business owners. He stated: "Real freedom means being respected for who you are - no matter what you look like, where you come from, who you love, or who you pray to," said Governor Shapiro. "For too long, many Pennsylvanians have faced discrimination simply for hairstyles that reflect their identity and culture - that ends today. I'm grateful to Speaker McClinton, Representative Mayes, and the advocates who worked to get this done. We're building a Commonwealth where everyone is welcomed, respected, and protected."
Other speakers at the event included Lorraine Ruley (Owner of Island Design Natural Hair Studio), Dr. Adjoa Asamoah (CROWN Act Champion), Speaker Joanna McClinton (PA's 191st House District), and Representative LaTasha Mayes (PA's 24th House District).
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